CN101360231B

CN101360231B - Host apparatus connected to point of deployment and method for processing broadcast data

Info

Publication number: CN101360231B
Application number: CN2008101301636A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 车尚勋
Original assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Current assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Priority date: 2007-07-30
Filing date: 2008-07-30
Publication date: 2013-06-05
Anticipated expiration: 2028-07-30
Also published as: CN101360231A; EP2028800A2; KR101341519B1; EP2028800B1; US20090080430A1; KR20090012984A; ATE462251T1; DE602008000861D1; US7944917B2; EP2028800A3

Abstract

A host device interfacing with a point of deployment (POD) and a method of processing broadcast data are disclosed. The IP physical interface unit receives frames including Internet Protocol (IP) packets carrying broadcast data through the network modem. The routing engine converts the frame into IP packets and routes the IP packets based on the destination information included in the frame. And the multiplexer generates an IP MPEG packet by appending a packet header carrying identification information to the IP packet, multiplexes the IPMPEG packet, and forwards the multiplexed IP packet to the POD.

Description

The method of the main process equipment that docks with deployment point (POD) and processing broadcast data

The application requires in the U.S. Provisional Application No.60/952 of submission on July 30th, 2007, and 846 priority is herein incorporated it by reference.And the application requires the priority of the korean patent application No.10-2007-96466 that submits on September 21st, 2007, by reference it is herein incorporated, and just look like all to set forth it the same here.

Technical field

The present invention relates to a kind of main process equipment that docks with deployment point (POD) and a kind of method of processing broadcast data, more specifically, the method that relates to the broadcast data that a kind of main process equipment of the broadcast data for the treatment of sending based on Internet protocol (IP) and a kind of processing send based on Internet protocol (IP).

Background technology

Existing TV (TV) service is provided by this way, the content of namely being made by broadcaster sends by wireless radio transmission medium, cable or satellite such as surface wave, and the beholder is by receiving the content that the TV receiver of the content that sends is watched transmission via each transmission medium.

But, because being developed and obtaining coml, uses the digital television techniques based on digital broadcasting, so broken away from existing analog broadcasting, can also provide various contents with the internet network that is connected to each family to the beholder except existing transmission medium thereby make, such as real-time broadcast, content-on-demand (CoD), game and news.

Provide the example of content can comprise internet protocol TV (IPTV) with internet network.IPTV represents for receiving various information service, dynamic image content and broadcasting with internet network and they being shown to user's broadcasting receiver.Can realize internet network based on various types of networks, such as fiber cable network, coax network, Fiber to the home (FTTH), telephone network and wireless network.

Different from general terrestrial broadcasting, use the service of internet network to have in addition the amphicheirality, and make the beholder to watch when an opportunity arises at him/her to want the program seen.

Summary of the invention

Therefore, the invention is intended to the data processing method that the main process equipment that docks with deployment point (POD) of one or more problems that a kind of restriction and shortcoming of basically having eliminated due to correlation technique cause and being used for uses at this main process equipment.

The data processing method that the purpose of this invention is to provide a kind of main process equipment that docks with deployment point (POD) and be used for using at this main process equipment, described main process equipment can be processed the data that receive via the internet.

The data processing method that another object of the present invention is to provide a kind of main process equipment that docks with deployment point (POD) and is used for using at this main process equipment, described host apparatus can be utilized by traditional condition that ply-yarn drill provides that has and access to process the broadcast data that receives from all Tx agreements that comprise wire/radio network and IP agreement.

The data processing method that another object of the present invention is to provide a kind of main process equipment that docks with deployment point (POD) and is used for using at this main process equipment, this main process equipment can receive broadcast data from multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA).

The data processing method that another object of the present invention is to provide a kind of main process equipment that docks with deployment point (POD) and is used for using at this main process equipment, this main process equipment can be processed data in the band that receives by the internet.

Other advantage of the present invention, purpose and feature will obtain part and set forth in the explanation of back, it partly will become in investigation subsequently is apparent for a person skilled in the art, perhaps can be by practice of the present invention is recognized.The objectives and other advantages of the present invention can realize and complete by the structure that particularly points out in written explanation and claim and accompanying drawing.

In order to realize that these purposes and other advantage reach according to purpose of the present invention, as here embodied with broadly described, a kind of method of processing broadcast data comprises: receive the frame that comprises Internet protocol (IP) grouping by network; Convert this frame to the IP grouping and divide into groups based on this IP of destination information route that is included in frame; Add the packet header that is loaded with identification information to the IP grouping; And will comprise the IP Packet Multiplexing of this packet header and multiplexing IP grouping will be sent to deployment point (POD).At this, destination information is at least one in MAC Address, IP address and port numbers.And identification information is the local stream ID (LTSID) that transmits.And the IP grouping is loaded with at least one in video, audio frequency and information on services.

And this frame is the ethernet frame that comprises ethernet header, IP grouping and Ethernet CRC.At this, convert this frame to IP grouping and comprise remove ethernet header and Ethernet CRC from this frame.

And, add packet header and comprise the identification information of determining about the IP grouping.At this, determine identification information based on being included in IP address in IP grouping and at least one in port numbers.

In another aspect of the present invention, a kind of method of processing broadcast data comprises: receive the frame that comprises Internet protocol IP grouping by IP network, described IP grouping is loaded with a MPEG and transmits stream TS grouping, and receives the broadcast singal that is loaded with the 2nd MPEG TS grouping by cable; Extract described IP grouping from described frame; Described broadcast singal is demodulated into described the 2nd MPEG TS grouping; Be additional to respectively described IP grouping and described the 2nd MPEG TS grouping by the packet header that will comprise identification information, generate IP MPEG grouping IMP and CableCARDMPEG grouping CMP and multiplexing described IMP and CMP, and described multiplexing grouping is sent to deployment point POD.At this, the IP grouping is loaded with at least one in video, audio frequency and information on services.

And the method comprises that further receiving IP MPEG grouping CableCARDMPEG from POD divides into groups; And the IP MPEG that receives is divided into groups and CableCARD MPEG grouping demultiplexing based on identification information.

In another aspect of this invention, a kind of main process equipment that docks with deployment point (POD) comprises: Internet protocol IP physical interface unit, and it is used for receiving by IP network the frame that comprises the IP grouping, and described IP grouping is loaded with a MPEG and transmits stream TS and divide into groups; Broadband interface unit, it is used for receiving by cable the broadcast singal that is loaded with the 2nd MPEG TS grouping; Demodulator, it is used for described broadcast singal is demodulated into described MPEG TS grouping; Routing engine, it is used for extracting described IP grouping from described frame; And multiplexer, it is used for being additional to respectively described IP grouping and described the 2nd MPEG TS grouping by the packet header that will comprise identification information, generate IP MPEG grouping IMP and CableCARD MPEG grouping CMP, multiplexing described IMP and CMP, and multiplexing grouping is sent to described POD.At this, destination information is at least one in MAC Address, IP address and port numbers.And identification information is the local stream ID (LTSID) that transmits.And the IP grouping is loaded with at least one in video, audio frequency and information on services.

And this frame is the ethernet frame that comprises ethernet header, IP grouping and Ethernet CRC.At this, routing engine is removed ethernet header and Ethernet CRC from this frame.

And multiplexer is determined the identification information about each IP grouping.At this, multiplexer is determined identification information based on being included in IP address in each IP grouping and at least one in port numbers.

And main process equipment further comprises: demodulation multiplexer is used for receiving IP MPEG grouping and CableCARD MPEG grouping from POD, and the IPMPEG that receives is divided into groups and CableCARD MPEG grouping demultiplexing based on identification information.

Therefore, the present invention can utilize from traditional condition that ply-yarn drill provides that has and access to carry out content protecting.Therefore, service provider or service enterprise can utilize condition to access to carry out the foregoing protection, and can stably collect usage charges to service-user.

The present invention processes the broadcast data that receives from all host-host protocols that comprise wire/radio network and IP agreement, so that it docks with the openCable safety card.Service subscriber or service-user minimally change or expand the function of traditional wired safety card, so that subscriber or user can watch the data of wanting the service provider that sees.

In the band that the present invention allows to send on all host-host protocols that comprise wire/radio network and IP agreement, data keep the IP packet format, so that data in the band of IP packet format are sent to safety card.As a result, main frame can be communicated by letter with safety card effectively.

The present invention keeps the interface with inner joint of traditional openCable card so that in the band that it can support to receive by the internet in data or other band of receiving by other in-band channel data both.As a result, the present invention can obtain the back compatible with legacy system.

The present invention can receive broadcast data from multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA), so that can realize IP-based seamless link on coaxial network, makes and realizes coaxial cable IP (IPover Coax).

Description of drawings

Be included in order to provide the accompanying drawing of a further understanding of the present invention to be merged in the application and consist of the application's a part, embodiments of the invention shown in the drawings, and be used for explaining together with the description principle of the present invention.In described accompanying drawing:

Fig. 1 shows the concept map of IPTV according to an embodiment of the invention system;

Fig. 2 shows the block diagram that the receiver of ply-yarn drill is arranged for use according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 3 shows the structure chart of ethernet frame according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 4 shows the structure chart that is routed to the data of multiplexer according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 5 shows the local structure chart that transmits stream ID (LTSID) table according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 6 shows the structure chart of CableCARD MPEG grouping (CMP) structure according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 7 shows the structure chart of IMP structure according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 8 shows the data flow of receiver according to an embodiment of the invention; And

Fig. 9 and 10 shows the flow chart of the method for the treatment of receiving (Rx) data according to an embodiment of the invention.

Embodiment

In addition, although the term that uses in the present invention is selected from usually term known and that use, some terms of mentioning in specification of the present invention have passed through the careful selection of applicant, and its detailed meanings is described in the relevant portion of this specification.In addition, need to not be the actual terms by use but understand the present invention by the meaning that comprises in each term simply.

Describe with reference to the accompanying drawings the method according to broadcasting receiver of the present invention and processing broadcast data in detail.

As the example of the system of various types of contents can be provided with internet network, internet protocol TV (IPTV) system can mainly be divided into server, network and broadcasting receiver (client).

The server of IPTV system can comprise the server with various functions, such as service discovery and selection server, streaming server, content guide information server, Customer Information server and payment information server.

In these servers, streaming server sends to broadcasting receiver by network with Motion Picture Experts Group (MPEG)-2 or the MPEG-4 decoding moving picture data of storing.As host-host protocol, can use RTP (RTP) or RTP Control Protocol (RTCP).

In the situation of using real-time streaming protocol (RTSP), the reproduction of moving picture stream can be controlled such as network trick play functionalities such as suspending, reset, stop to a certain extent.

Information about the various contents that provide is provided the content guide information server.Content guide information comprises the various information about content, as with the corresponding information of electronic program guides (EPG) information.Content guide information server stores content guide information data, and the data of storing are offered broadcasting receiver.

In server, service discovery and selection server offer broadcasting receiver with visit information and the information reproduction of server, and described visit information is used for providing all kinds of content services such as broadcasting, content-on-demand (CoD) or game.

Network system comprises based on the network of internet and gateway.As the network based on the internet, can use all kinds of IP-based networks, such as fiber cable network, coax network, Fiber to the home (FTTH), telephone network and wireless network.Gateway can carry out data transmission, use multicast group management and service quality (QoS) management such as the agreement of Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) usually.

The broadcasting receiver that IPTV represents to receive the data that send via internet network and data offered the user.Broadcasting receiver can comprise that IPTV set-top box, home gateway and IPTV embed TV.

Hybrid IP TV system can provide all kinds of internet contents and all kinds of existing broadcasted content.That is to say, except all kinds of broadcasted contents such as terrestrial broadcasting, wired broadcasting, satellite broadcasting or private broadcasting, can also provide in various the Internet images the perhaps data content except image to the user.These contents can be in real time or program request provide.

Fig. 1 is the schematic diagram that the system of IPTV according to an embodiment of the invention is shown.

From the angle of content and service provider, the IPTV system can be divided into content supplier (CP), service provider (SP), network provider (NP) and user.

CP makes and provides all kinds of contents.CP can comprise terrestrial broadcasters, wired system operator (SO) or wired multisystem operator, satellite broadcasting company and Internet Broadcast company.

SP becomes to serve and provide service with the content packaging that CP provides.For example, the SP of Fig. 1 is packaged into the first terrestrial broadcasting, the second terrestrial broadcasting, wired MSO broadcasting, satellite broadcasting, various Internet Broadcast service and service is offered the user.

As the mechanism for the protection of the content that sends in the IPTV system, can service condition access or content protecting.As the example of condition access or content protecting, ply-yarn drill or Downloadable condition receiving system (DACS) can have been used.

Using by the SP that the IPTV service is provided of safety card or DCAS selected.Use in the situation of safety card or DCAS in broadcasting receiver, the SP that communicates by letter with broadcasting receiver should use this system.

Fig. 2 illustrates the broadcasting receiver schematic block diagram of using safety card according to embodiments of the invention.

The broadcast reception function of Fig. 2 receives all of IP-based IPTV service, wired broadcasting, terrestrial broadcasting and satellite broadcasting.According to realizing example, the broadcasting receiver of Fig. 2 can receive only IPTV service or wired broadcasting.The safety card of Fig. 2 can be according to realizing that example is called other term.

The receiver of Fig. 2 mainly comprises main frame and safety card.Main frame comprises the first broadband interface unit 202, the second broadband interface unit 204, demodulator 206, multiplexer 208, demodulation multiplexer 210, decoder 212, IP physical interface unit 214, routing engine 216, controller 218, Downloadable CAS (DCAS) unit 222, digital video recorder (DVR) controller 224, content-encrypt device 226, memory interface unit 228 and memory cell 230.

Broadcasting receiver is the open line style receiver that has, wherein, comprise conditional access system (CAS) safety card can with body portion from.Safety card also can be referred to as deployment point (POD) module, and it is inserted in the slot of main body of broadcasting receiver or separates with it.The main body that safety card is inserted in wherein also is referred to as main process equipment.That is to say, the combination of safety card and main process equipment is referred to as broadcasting receiver.

The main process equipment that is included in the broadcasting receiver of Fig. 2 is an example that realizes by the multithread main process equipment that can process simultaneously a plurality of streams.When main process equipment is when realizing by the single current main process equipment that can only process a stream, it is bypassed so that the multiplexer 208 of the main process equipment of Fig. 2 and demodulation multiplexer 210 transmit grouping and generate CableCard MPEG grouping (CMP) and IP MPEG grouping (IMP) and multiplexing this CMP and this IMP and multiplexing CMP and the IMP of demultiplexing by packet header being additional to MPEG.But, although main process equipment realize by the single current main process equipment, other operation disclosed by the invention is carried out too.And, the single current card that can only process a stream can be used as safety card 220, perhaps also can be able to process simultaneously the multithread card of several streams as safety card 220.

Network modem 200 connects external network and broadcasting receiver.For example, broadcasting receiver can utilize data-over-cable service interface standard (DOCSIS) modulator-demodulator, is connected to the wireless repeater (repeater) of wireless the Internet network or is connected to external network such as the line relay device that is connected to the wired Internet network of wired ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) (ADSL) repeater.Broadcasting receiver and the example that is connected between external network are exemplary and can how be connected to external network according to broadcasting receiver and change.

Be in the situation that realizes by the DOCSIS modulator-demodulator at network modem 200, can be connected to the DOCSIS network according to broadcasting receiver of the present invention.That is to say, network modem 200 can be set up Cable Modem Termination System (CMTS) (DSG agency) and DSG passage so that the data broadcast that receives via DOCSIS network delivery slave top controller (DSG server) and the DSG passage that passes through to set up receive broadcast data.Here, ip multicast/clean culture be realized and be supported to the DOCSIS network can by the IP backbone network.

But in order to pass through DOCSIS network support ip multicast/clean culture, the grouping that receives from CMTS (DSG agency) should be converted into the DSG grouping and should send this DSG grouping.Therefore, broadcasting receiver can not be directly connected to the external IP network so that receive broadcast data.

In order to address these problems, network modem 200 can be provided for broadcasting receiver is directly connected to the function of external IP network.For example, network modem 200 can be realized by multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA).Be in the situation that realizes by MoCA at network modem 200, can set up IP-based network and connect it by the coaxial cable network.That is to say, be in the situation that realizes by MoCA at network modem 200, can not use DOCSIS, do not need to use the DOCSIS modulator-demodulator, and do not need to use the CMTS that is connected to the DOCSIS modulator-demodulator by network.In addition, do not need to use the DSG passage of setting up between DOCSIS modulator-demodulator and CMTS.Therefore, owing to can realize IP-based seamless link by coaxial network, thus can use coaxial cable IP (IP Over Coax) according to broadcasting receiver of the present invention, and therefore the broadcast service of fast and stable is provided to the user.

The first 202 of broadband interface unit be tuned to ground audio/video (A/V) broadcasting that sends by antenna or the specific channel frequency by wired A/V broadcasting of sending in the cable band that is connected to network modem 200, and tuning signal is outputed to demodulator 206.

At this moment, because terrestrial broadcasting and wired broadcasting are to send by different transmission methods, so in demodulator 206 with different demodulation methods come demodulation they.For example, A/V broadcasting in ground is to modulate with vestigial sideband modulation (VSB) method, and wired A/V broadcasting is to use the modulation of quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) method.Therefore, if be terrestrial broadcasting by the first tuning channel frequency of broadband interface unit 202, demodulator 206 use VSB method demodulation terrestrial broadcastings and if be wired broadcasting by the first tuning channel frequency of broadband interface unit 202, are used QAM method demodulation wired broadcasting.

The second 204 of broadband interface unit be tuned to specific channel frequency by the wired A/V broadcasting that sends in the cable band that is connected to network modem 200, and tuning signal is outputed to demodulator 206.

The first broadband interface unit 202 and the second broadband interface unit 204 can tuning different channels signal, and send signal to demodulator 206.Alternately, the different A/V streams that the first broadband interface unit 202 and the second broadband interface unit 204 can tuning same channels, and send signal to demodulator 206.For example, the stream that the first broadband interface unit 202 can tuning key frame, and the stream that the second broadband interface unit 204 can tuning picture-in-picture (PIP).In digital video signal is stored in situation in digital video recorder (DVR), can watch and recorded video signal with the first broadband interface unit 202 and the second broadband interface unit 204.

The signal that demodulator 206 demodulation receive also sends to multiplexer 208 with the signal of institute's demodulation.For example, be sent to multiplexer 208 by the MPEG TS of mpeg encoded scheme (for example MPEG 2 or MPEG 4) coding (transmitting stream) stream.The stream of perhaps, being encoded by other encoding scheme is sent to multiplexer 208.The signal that receives is according to the encoding scheme that the signal that receives is encoded and difference.

IP physical interface unit 214 serves as network interface unit.That IP physical interface unit 214 receives is that receive via network modem 200, be sent to the ethernet frame grouping of the particular ip address among the address, and the ethernet frame grouping that receives is sent to routing engine 216.In addition, IP physical interface unit receives bi-directional data (for example pay-per view program application, receiver state information and user's input information) from routing engine 216, and by network modem 200, the bi-directional data that receives is sent to external network.The IP address can be the IP address of main frame or the IP address of safety card.

The receiver of Fig. 2 can from OOB (band outside) message data or the band interior data of IP physical interface unit 214 receptions based on the IP agreement, comprise audio frequency, video and datacast data.

Traditional wired broadcast system receives OOB data, for example system information (SI), emergency alarm system (EAS), expanded application information table (XAIT), conditional access system information and various safety card control information with DOCSIS machine top gateway (DSG) or OOB scheme.

The main frame of the receiver of Fig. 2 can comprise DOCSIS modulator-demodulator or OOB tuner, so that it can receive the OOB data.For example, receiver can utilize one in IP scenario and OON scheme to receive the OOB data.In addition, receiver can utilize IP scenario, DSG scheme, and in the OOB scheme one receives the OOB data.

If receiver is selected in IP scenario and OOB scheme and received the OOB data with selected scheme, the receiver of Fig. 2 further needs OOB tuner and demodulator.If the receiver of Fig. 2 receives one in IP scenario, DSG scheme and OOB scheme, and receive the OOB data with selected scheme, receiver further needs DOCSIC modulator-demodulator, OOB tuner, is used for selecting the switch unit of DSG or OOB scheme and is used for according to each scheme, data being sent to headend (headend) or service provider's demodulator.If a plurality of schemes are arranged, headend determines to use which scheme, and determined result is sent to safety card.Safety card sends to main frame with the operation scheme information that receives.

For convenience of description, path and the piece of the OOB scheme of the path of DSG scheme of DOCSIS and piece or OOB tuner have been omitted in the receiver of Fig. 2.

Routing engine 216 is with the destination of each Rx Packet routing to the Rx grouping.For example, routing engine 216 can utilize network stack based on TCP/IP (TCP/IP) with above-mentioned Packet routing to the destination.Routing engine 216 can be supported ICP/IP protocol and UDP (User Datagram Protoco (UDP))/IP agreement.And routing engine 216 can utilize packet header information to distinguish data and OOB data in band, and can carry out shake (jitter) and filter.

Fig. 3 shows the structure chart of ethernet frame according to an embodiment of the invention.Routing engine 216 receives the ethernet frame of the structure with Fig. 3.This frame comprises the ethernet header of 14 bytes, the IP header of 20 bytes, UDP header, payload and the Ethernet CRC (cyclic redundancy check (CRC)) of 8 bytes.If data send according to Transmission Control Protocol rather than udp protocol, can use TCP header rather than UDP header, and the tcp payload that represents UDP header can be included in ethernet frame, so that above-mentioned payload can comprise data or OOB data in band.

Routing engine 216 is divided into data and OOB data in band with the Rx data of Fig. 3, and carries out in band and the route of OOB data.In order to be with interior data and OOB data separation to come, routing engine 216 can use the header information of arranging between transmitting terminal and receiving terminal.Can use second layer route, the 3rd layer of route or the 4th layer of route will be with in data and OOB data be routed to the data destinations.

In the situation of using second layer route, routing engine 216 uses the destination media interviews that comprise in the ethernet header of the ethernet frame that receives to control (MAC) address and carries out route.In the situation of using the 3rd layer of route, routing engine 216 uses the IP address, destination that comprises in the IP of the ethernet frame that receives header to carry out route.In the situation of using the 4th layer of route, routing engine 216 uses the destination port that comprises in the UDP header of the ethernet frame that receives to carry out route.If ethernet frame comprises the TCP header, routing engine 216 application target ground tcp ports are carried out routes.Routing engine 216 can realize that example determines to use second layer route, the 3rd layer of route or the 4th layer of route according to each.In other words, routing engine 216 can realize that example uses second layer route, the 3rd layer of route or the 4th layer of route according to each.

For example, in the situation of using second layer route, the ethernet header that is included in the host data in the Rx data comprises mac address information.In using the situation of the 3rd layer of route, the IP address that is included in host data in the Rx data comprises the IP address information of main frame.In the situation of using the 4th layer of route, the UDP header or the TCP header that are included in the host data in the Rx data comprise port numbers.

In the Rx of routing engine 216 data, comprise that the interior data of band of audio frequency, video and datacast data are routed to IP to TS decapsulator 218.In band, data can be the MPEG TS stream with mpeg encoded scheme (for example MPEG 2 or MPEG 4) coding.In band, data can be the stream with other encoding scheme coding.

Fig. 4 shows the structure chart that is routed to the data of multiplexer 208 according to an embodiment of the invention.The data structure of Fig. 4 can comprise payload and the MPEG-TS that encodes with the MPEG scheme.Routing engine 216 sends to multiplexer 208 with the data except the ethernet header in the ethernet frame that receives and Ethernet CRC.The data that hereinafter will have the data structure of Fig. 4 are called the IP grouping.

Realize example according to main frame, can receive simultaneously the IP grouping of the A/V data that comprise several channels.Therefore, each data in the IP grouping that is included in different channels distributed to LTSID by multiplexer 208, and the data-reusing that result is obtained.In this case, LTSID represents the identification information for identification respective streams data.For example, if multiplexer 208 receives the IP grouping of Fig. 4, the routing index information of use and data transfer server or the headend agreement LTSID that will be mapped to each MPEG-TS distributes to the IP that receives and divides into groups.Safety card uses above-mentioned LTSID with Data classification, and can carry out CA descrambling (descrambling) to grouped data.Main frame can use correctly route data of LTSID.In this case, routing index information can receive by server or headend.And routing index information can comprise IP address list or port list, and can comprise another list relevant with related port to the IP address.

Fig. 5 shows the local structure chart that transmits stream ID (LTSID) table according to an embodiment of the invention.Based on the LTSID table of Fig. 5, the present invention can distinguish between data in the band of the IP of IP-based each Rx channel grouped data and wired broadcasting channel simultaneously.And the present invention can generate and revise above-mentioned LTSID table with routing index information.

With reference to Fig. 5, the wired index of QAM can be used for distinguishing the A/V data flow by quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) the channel reception of wired broadcasting channel.For example, if receiver can receive the data of several wired broadcasting channels by several tuners, it can distribute to LTSID each tuner.As shown in Figure 2, in order to be identified in the A/V data flow that receives in the first broadband interface unit 202, can distribute the wired index 1 of QAM (LTSID 1).In order to be identified in the A/V data flow that receives in the second broadband interface unit 204, can distribute the wired index 2 of QAM (LTSID 2).

The IP index can be used for identifying the IP grouped data corresponding with each channel data that receives by the IP network channel.In order to identify the above-mentioned IP grouped data, can use various methods for distributing LTSID.In this case, can calculate the IP index according to routing index information.

At first, receiver can use the IP address information that comprises in the IP header of the IP grouping that receives in multiplexer 208 to distribute LTSID.In other words, if several IP address is used as the IP index, different LTSID can be distributed to the IP address.Therefore, receiver can be distinguished the Rx data of each IP address.For example, the IP grouping that the IP address (1.1.1.1) that IP index 1 (LTSID 3) can be distributed at receiver is located to receive, and IP index 2 (LTSID 4) can be distributed to the IP grouping of locating to receive in another IP address (1.1.1.2) of receiver.IPv4, IPv6 etc. can be applied to the IP address.The above-mentioned IP address is just as example.But the information that comprises in the IP header of frame or grouping can change according to the above-mentioned IP address.In this case, each IP address that multiplexer 208 can be included in routing index information is set to the IP index, and LTSID is distributed to each IP address, so that can generate and revise the table of Fig. 4.

Secondly, receiver can use the port information that comprises in UDP (or TCP) header of the IP grouping that receives in multiplexer 208 to distribute LTSID.In other words, if several ports are used as the IP index, different LTSID can be distributed to each port.Therefore, receiver can be distinguished the Rx data of each port.For example, the IP grouping of the No.6 port reception that IP index 1 (LTSID 3) can be distributed at receiver, and the IP grouping of the No.17 port reception that IP index 2 (LTSID 4) can be distributed at receiver.Above-mentioned port numbers is just as example.In this case, each port that multiplexer 208 can be included in routing index information is set to the IP index, and LTSID is distributed to each port, so that can generate and revise the table of Fig. 5.

The 3rd, receiver comprises in not only can the IP header with the IP grouping that receives in multiplexer 208 IP distributes LTSID in the address, and can use the port information that comprises in UDP (or TCP) header to distribute LTSID.In other words, the IP index can comprise at least one in IP address and related port thereof.Receiver can distribute LTSID with IP address and port information.For example, IP index 1 (LTSID 3) can be distributed to the IP grouping that the No.6 port receives among all IP grouping of locating to receive in IP address (1.1.1.1), and IP index 2 (LTSID 4) can be distributed to the IP grouping that the No.17 port receives among all IP groupings of locating to receive in IP address (1.1.1.1).IP index 3 (LTSID 5: not shown) can be distributed to the IP grouping that the No.6 port receives among all IP grouping of locating to receive in IP address (1.1.1.2).In this case, each IP address that multiplexer 208 can be included in routing index information is set to the IP index with the port relevant to the IP address, and LTSID is distributed to each IP address and port, so that can generate and revise the table of Fig. 5.

The route destination of LTSID (Routing Dest) is illustrated in the route destination of above-mentioned data after demodulation multiplexer 210 executed demultiplexings.The data format that ' form ' of LTSID table receives in the destination when being illustrated in the demultiplexed data of route demodulation multiplexer.For example, if the LTSID value of data is 1, these data are by demodulation multiplexer 210 demultiplexings, and the data of demultiplexing are routed to decoder.The data format that is routed to decoder is the MPEG-TS form.If the LTSID value of data is 4, these data are by demodulation multiplexer 210 demultiplexings, and the data of demultiplexing are routed to memory cell (for example HDD).With the above-mentioned route data form of form configuration of IP grouping, the IP header of described IP grouping is added to MPEG-TS, as shown in Figure 4.

Can generate above-mentioned LTSID table after the initial start main frame.When generating above-mentioned LTSID table, each of above-mentioned table (for example destination information or a format information) can have respectively default value.Even main frame is cut off power supply, above-mentioned table also can keep default value.For this operation, above-mentioned value can be stored in the memory cell 230 of the nonvolatile memory that serves as main frame.Route destination information or format information can be changed into another by user's configuration information scheduled time after host-initiated.That is to say, above-mentioned information can change according to the various conditions that arrange.

Multiplexer 208 is inserted into LTSID in both Rx data of demodulator 206 and routing engine 216.The Rx data can be re-used, and can export multiplexing data.For example, multiplexer 208 is multiplexing with master image and PIP image, and output is through the multiplexing image that obtains.In this case, master image is tuning by the first broadband interface unit 202, and demodulated through the tuning image that obtains.The PIP image is tuning by the second broadband interface unit 204, and demodulated through the tuning image that obtains.In addition, according to realizing example, above-mentioned multiplexing result can be multiplexing with the output signal of routing engine 216, so that can generate result images from multiplexer 208.If will be received in based on the coded data of MPEG2 in receiver by tuner, multiplexer 208 receives the MPEG-TS data.If by IP physical interface unit (NIC) 214, IP-based coded data is received in receiver, multiplexer 208 receives the IP grouping.

If the safety card of receiver is equal to the S-CARD that can support single stream, main frame sends to safety card with the Rx data, and does not make any modification.Therefore, the multiplexer 208 of Fig. 2 or demodulation multiplexer 210 do not need to carry out IMP or CMP by local header is invested the Rx data, and do not need multiplexing or demultiplexing IMP or CMP.In other words, the multiplexing or demultiplexing of having avoided the multiplexer 208 shown in Fig. 2 or demodulation multiplexer 210 is processed.But even use the single current main frame, other operation of the present invention also can be carried out in the mode identical with the multithread main frame.But, if safety card is the M-CARD that can support multithread, need for carrying out multiplexing to several data flow or to carrying out the processing of demultiplexing through the multiplexing data that obtain.Above-mentioned multiplexing process is added the front header (pre-header) of 12 bytes to flow data, and then that result data is multiplexing.From processing, demultiplexing removes this front header.

When using the M-CARD card that is used for the support multithread, use the receiver of Fig. 2.Therefore, if multiplexer 208 receive datas, it with front header add the data that receive to, result data is multiplexing and export multiplexing result.The Rx data of demodulator 206 are different from the data of routing engine 216.For example, the MPEG-TS data may be received in demodulator 206.The IP grouped data of Fig. 4 can receive from routing engine 216.

The data that multiplexer 208 district offices receive, add front header to result data, and the output result of adding.For example, if demodulator 206 receives the MPEG-TS data, multiplexer 208 adds the front header of 12 bytes to the MPEG-TS data, and the result of adding is multiplexing.If in routing engine 216, multiplexer 208 adds the front header of 12 bytes to the IP packet-formatted data, and the result of adding is multiplexing with the data receiver of IP packet format.For convenience of description, if construct specific grouping by adding front header to MPEG-TS, should specifically divide into groups to be called CableCard MPEG grouping (CMP).If construct specific grouping by adding front header to the IP grouped data, should specifically divide into groups to be called IP MPEG grouping (IMP).Above-mentioned term just discloses for illustrative purpose, and scope and spirit of the present invention are not limited only to above-mentioned term, but can also be applied to as required other example.

Fig. 6 shows the structure chart of CableCARD MPEG grouping (CMP) structure according to an embodiment of the invention.Fig. 7 shows the structure chart according to the IMP structure of one embodiment of the invention.CMP comprises the front header of 12 bytes and the payload (MPEG-TS) of 188 bytes.The IMP structure comprises the front header of 12 bytes, IP header and UDP (or TCP) header of 8 bytes and the payload (MPEG-TS) of 188 bytes of 20 bytes.

The front header of 12 bytes comprises local stream ID (LTSID) district, reserved area (Res1 and Res2), main frame reserved area (HOSTres), local time stamp (LTS) district, safe CARD reserved area (CableCardres) and the CRC district of transmitting.The LTSID district can comprise above-mentioned LTSID information.Main frame reserved area (HOSTres) can comprise the additional packet characteristic information that generates from main frame.The LTS district is included in local time stamp (LTS) information of stipulating in main frame.Main frame can use above-mentioned local time stamp (LTS) information to manage MPEG grouping sequential.(CableCardres) can optionally be used by safety card in the safety card reserved area.The CRC district comprises the CRC information for the mistake of header before correcting.

Multiplexer 208 outputs to demodulation multiplexer 210 with terrestrial broadcasting data (data that namely do not need the CA descrambling).Require other data (data in for example wired broadcasting data or IPTV band) of CA descrambling to be sent to safety card 220.In this case, multiplexer 208 can send to safety card 220 with the data of above-mentioned CMP or IMP packet format.

Safety card 220 comprises condition access (CA) system, so that can realize preventing from copying with condition and accessing of high added value broadcasted content.This safety card 220 can also be referred to as deployment point (POD).In other words, safety card 220 descrambling Rx broadcast datas, and the broadcast data of descrambling is outputed to demodulation multiplexer 210.If receive CMP or IMP grouping in safety card 220, safety card 220 descramblings are included in the data (being MPEG-TS) in the payload of grouping.If there is no safety card 220, the CMP or the IMP grouping that generate from multiplexer 208 are sent straight to demodulation multiplexer 210.In this case, the broadcast data of scrambling can not be by descrambling, so that the user can not normally watch above-mentioned broadcast data.

The CMP that safety card 220 descramblings receive or IMP grouping, and will comprise that CMP or the IMP grouping of descrambling data re-send to main frame.

Demodulation multiplexer 210 receives CMP or IMP grouping, to the grouped data demultiplexing and export the data of demultiplexing.Demodulation multiplexer 210 use are included in the data that LTSID in front header processes demultiplexing.For example, the grouped data with specific LTSID can be sent to decoder 212, so that the data that decoder 212 decodings receive.The grouped data that can use digital video recorder (DVR) will have another LTSID is stored in memory cell 230.

After receiving the CMP grouping, demodulation multiplexer 210 is removed the front header that is included in above-mentioned grouping, and comes deal with data with the LTSID information that is included in front header.In other words, demodulation multiplexer 210 shows to detect route destination information and data format information by the LTSID of reference Fig. 5, and they are mapped to the LTSID that is included in above-mentioned CMP grouping.Remove above-mentioned front header according to the route destination information that detects, and have the CMP grouping of the data that consist of according to the format information route that detects.For example, remove above-mentioned front header according to above-mentioned LTSID information, and the data (for example MPEG-TS) that are included in payload can be outputed to decoder 212.For another example, remove front header according to LTSID information, and also the data that are included in payload can be stored in memory cell 230.

After receiving the IMP grouping, demodulation multiplexer 210 is removed the front header that is included in above-mentioned grouping, and comes deal with data with LTSID information.In other words, demodulation multiplexer 210 shows to detect route destination information and data format information by the LTSID of reference Fig. 5, and they are mapped to the LTSID that is included in above-mentioned IMP grouping.Remove above-mentioned front header according to the route destination information that detects, and have the IMP grouping of the data of formation according to the format information route that detects.For example, remove front header, IP header and UDP (or TCP) header from above-mentioned grouping, and the data (for example MPEG-TS) that are included in payload can be sent to decoder 212.According to above-mentioned LTSID information, can be with the IP packet memory that do not have front header in memory cell 230, perhaps the payload data (MPEG-TS) that does not have front header, do not have the IP header and do not have UDP (or TCP) header can be stored in memory cell 230.

Decoder 212 recovers the A/V signal with video decode algorithm and the compression of audio decoder algorithm, and exports the A/V signal that recovers.

The numerical data that DVR controller 224, content-encrypt device 226, memory interface 228 and memory cell 230 storages receive, the data that output is stored are also reproduced these data.After controller 218 receives control signal, the MPEG TS of the route of DVR controller 224 store demultiplexed devices 210 or reproduction are selected from video, audio frequency and the system data of the data of storing.The data that 226 pairs of content-encrypt devices will be stored are carried out and are encrypted, and export the data of encrypting.In addition, the data that 226 pairs of content-encrypt devices are encrypted are carried out deciphering, and export the data of deciphering.According to realizing example, can not use content-encrypt device 226.Memory interface 228 sends to memory cell 230/ from memory cell 230 receive datas with data, so that it serves as and the data I of memory cell 230/O interface.The data that memory cell 230 storages receive.

Conditional access system (CAS) is downloaded from the transmission ends server in DCAS unit 222, and stores the CAS that downloads.DCAS unit 222 is according to suitable CA system executive condition access (CA) function among the CA system that stores.Controller 218 is controlled at interface between main frame and safety card and the data processing function of above-mentioned main frame.

Fig. 8 shows the data flow of receiver according to an embodiment of the invention.The receiver of Fig. 8 is equal to the receiver of Fig. 2.For convenience of description, the data flow that it should be noted that Fig. 8 is based on the stream of the Rx data of the Rx data of IP network channel and wired broadcasting channel, and will omit other piece here.Suppose the data that received mpeg encoded in the receiver of Fig. 8.

As mentioned above, can receive the wired broadcasting data by the first broadband interface unit 202 and the second broadband interface unit 204.Carry out the QAM demodulation by 206 pairs of data that receive of demodulator so that with demodulated market demand in multiplexer 208.The output data of multiplexer 208 have the MPEG-TS form.

Receive the IP network channel data by IP physical interface unit (NIC) 214, and by routing engine 216, the data that receive are routed to corresponding destination.The routing engine 216 of Fig. 8 only shows ethernet layer, IP layer and the TCP/UDP among network stack.Routing engine 216 is divided into data and OOB data in band with the Rx data.The OOB data are sent to safety card, and in band, data are sent to multiplexer 208.In the OOB that sends or band, data are the IP packet-formatted data that comprise IP header, UDP header (or TCP header) and payload.In the situation of OOB data, payload comprises OOB message data.In the situation of data, payload comprises MPEG TS in band.

Multiplexer 208 adds the front header of 12 bytes the MPEG-TS that receives from demodulator 206 to, the front header of 12 bytes is added to the data of the IP packet format that receives from routing engine 216 and result data is sent to safety card.Fig. 8 ' this locality ' expression front header that device 208 adds that is re-used.As mentioned above, wherein before the header grouping that is added to MPEG-TS be confirmed as CMP.Wherein other grouping that is added to IP grouping of front header is confirmed as IMP.

Data channel and extended channel are between safety card and main frame.Data channel allows Control on Communication signal between main frame and safety card.Extended channel allows communicate by letter truly or real data between main frame and safety card.Data channel and extended channel are defined by realizing the data communication between main frame and safety card, so that they serve as cpu i/f.In other words, safety card is communicated by letter with transmission ends, is analyzed from the data of transmission ends reception and by data channel and extended channel and main-machine communication, so that can carry out the order of transmission ends indication or the user entry content is sent to transmission ends.

In this case, in order to send data by extended channel, must set up the transmission path corresponding with predetermined data types between safety card and main frame.This transmission path is called " stream ".For example, in order to send MPEG section (section) data, must set up MPEG section stream between safety card and main frame.Set up MPEG section stream between safety card and main frame after, actual MPEG sector data can be sent to corresponding stream.There are various extended channel streams between safety card and main frame, DOCSIS machine top gateway (DSG) stream, IP unicast (IP_U) stream, ip multicast (IP_M) stream and MPEG section stream.

As can as can be seen from Figure 8, using IP_U stream or IP_M stream to send to safety card with the OOB message of IP block form configuration.Can use the mpeg data stream data (for example CMP or IMP divide into groups) in band of communicating by letter between safety card and main frame.

Safety card 220 is included in the data in the payload of the CMP that receives or IMP grouping according to CAS (conditional access system) or CP (content protecting) scheme descrambling.To comprise that CMP as a result or the IMP grouping of descrambling data re-send to main frame.

The demodulation multiplexer 210 of main frame is with the grouping demultiplexing that receives, and the grouping of output demultiplexing.For example, the demodulation multiplexer 210 MPEG-TS data that will be included in the payload of the CMP that receives or IMP grouping send to decoder 212.In addition, also above-mentioned data can be stored in memory cell 230.The A/V data that decoder 212 decodings receive, and export the A/V data of decoding.

Fig. 9 and 10 shows the flow chart of the method for the treatment of receiving (Rx) data according to an embodiment of the invention.If by wired broadcasting channel receive data, Fig. 9 shows the flow chart for the treatment of the method for the data that receive (Rx data).If by IP network channel receive data, Figure 10 shows the flow chart for the treatment of the method for the data that receive (Rx data).The processing of execution graph 9 simultaneously of above-mentioned receiver and the processing of Figure 10.

After receiving signal by the wired broadcasting channel, the signal that main frame receives in step S900 demodulation.For example, main frame can be according to the above-mentioned signal of QAM scheme demodulation.Data with the demodulation of QAM scheme can have the MPEG-TS form.

Main frame adds front header to the data of above-mentioned demodulation, and at step S910, the interpolation results conversion is become CMP (CableCard MPEG grouping) grouping.When the interpolation result data being converted to the CMP grouping, main frame can will be inserted into front header for the LTSID information of identifying above-mentioned data.At step S920, the CMP grouping is sent to safety card.At step S930, the safety card descrambling is included in the data in the payload of CMP grouping.Safety card comes descrambling data according to the scrambling scheme of Rx data, and exports the result of institute's descrambling.

At step S940, safety card will comprise that the CMP grouping of above-mentioned descrambling data re-sends to main frame.At step S950, main frame receives the CMP grouping, remove the front header of grouping and with the data decode of institute's descrambling.In addition, DVR can store according to the condition of setting the data of institute's descrambling.

After receiving signal by the IP network channel, at step S1000, main frame can use network interface unit (NIC) to receive above-mentioned signal, so that the data that receive can have ethernet frame format.

At step S1010, main frame is with the above-mentioned Rx data of format configuration of IP grouping, and with IP Packet routing as a result to corresponding destination.The IP grouping comprises IP header, UDP (or TCP) header or payload.Can above-mentioned routing plan be set to any one in second layer route, the 3rd layer of route and the 4th layer of route.

At step s1020, main frame adds front header to the Rx data of IP packet format, and the interpolation results conversion is become IMP (IP MPEG grouping) grouping.The term of above-mentioned grouping only discloses for illustrative purpose, and it should be noted that scope and spirit of the present invention are not limited to above-mentioned term, but can also be applied to as required other example.When with above-mentioned interpolation results conversion being above-mentioned IMP grouping, main frame can be inserted into LTSID information in front header.At step S1030, the IMP grouping is sent to safety card.At step S1040, the safety card descrambling is included in the data in the payload of above-mentioned IMP grouping.Safety card Rx data above-mentioned according to the scrambling scheme descrambling, and the result of output institute descrambling.

At step S1050, the IMP grouping that safety card will dispose above-mentioned descrambling data re-sends to main frame.At step S1060, main frame receives the IMP grouping, removes front header, IP header and UDP (or TCP) header and with the data decode of institute's descrambling from above-mentioned grouping.For another example, main frame can carry out any modification above-mentioned descrambling data of storage and not carry out any modification according to the condition of setting, perhaps can store the IP grouping with front header.For going back an example, main frame can be removed front header, IP header, UDP (or TCP) header from MPEG TS, and can only remaining MPEG TS be stored in wherein.

In this case, safety card can use smart card rather than ply-yarn drill is arranged.

According to the present embodiment of the present invention, descrambling module is included in safety card or smart card.This card is detachably connected to main frame.Descrambling module by card comes descrambling Rx broadcast singal, and the result that will separate offers the user.But according to some embodiment of the present invention, main frame can comprise descrambling module and not block.Descrambling module can be modified, with from the broadcasting station or the service provider download.In other words, the descrambling module of downloading can be modified, to be stored in the predetermined memory that is included in main frame.But above-mentioned structure just discloses for illustrative purpose, it should be noted that said structure difference does not limit the spirit and scope of the present invention, and can realize with other example as required.

From the above description obviously as can be known, the present invention can be with accessing to carry out content protecting from traditional condition that ply-yarn drill provides that has.Therefore, service provider or service enterprise can service condition access to carry out the foregoing protection, and can stably collect usage charges to service-user.

The present invention processes the broadcast data that receives from all host-host protocols that comprise wire/radio network and IP agreement, so that it and openCable safety card interface.The function of traditional wired safety card is revised or expanded to service subscriber or service-user minimally, so that subscriber or user can watch the data of wanting the service provider that sees.

In the band that the present invention allows to send on all host-host protocols that comprise wire/radio network and IP agreement, data keep the IP packet format, so that in the band of IP packet format, data are sent to safety card.As a result, main frame can be communicated by letter with safety card effectively.

The present invention keeps the interface with inner joint of traditional openCable card, so that data in data or other band of receiving by other in-band channel in the band that it can support to receive by the internet.As a result, the present invention can obtain the back compatible with legacy system.

The present invention can receive broadcast data from multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA), so that can realize IP-based seamless link on coaxial network, makes and realizes coaxial cable IP.

It is obvious to those skilled in the art that without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, can carry out various modifications and changes to the present invention.Therefore, this invention is intended to contain to modifications and variations of the present invention, as long as they are in the scope of appended claims and equivalent thereof.

Claims

1. A method for processing broadcast data in a host device docked with a deployment point POD, the method comprising:

receiving over an IP network an Ethernet frame comprising an Internet Protocol IP packet carrying a first MPEG Transport Stream TS packet, and receiving a broadcast signal carrying a second MPEG TS packet over a cable;

extracting the IP packet from the Ethernet frame;

routing the IP packet based on destination information included in the Ethernet frame;

demodulating the broadcast signal into the second MPEG TS packets;

IP MPEG packets IMP and CableCARD are generated by attaching a packet header including identification information to said first MPEG TS packet included in said IP packet and said second MPEG TS packet demodulated from said broadcast signal, respectively MPEG Packet CMP; and

multiplexing the IMP and the CMP, and sending the multiplexed IMP and CMP to the POD;

receiving the IMP and the CMP from the POD; and

demultiplexing said received IMP and CMP and routing said demultiplexed IMP and CMP based on said identification information,

Wherein, the identification information is a local transport stream identifier LTSID.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the IP packets carry at least one of video, audio and service information.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the frame further includes an Ethernet header and an Ethernet CRC.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the step of extracting the IP packets from the frame comprises:

The Ethernet header and the Ethernet CRC are removed from the frame.

5. A host device connected to a deployment point POD, the host device comprising:

an Internet Protocol IP physical interface unit for receiving over an IP network an Ethernet frame comprising an IP packet carrying a first MPEG Transport Stream TS packet;

A broadband interface unit, which is used to receive the cable broadcast signal carrying the second MPEG TS grouping through the cable;

a demodulator for demodulating the cable broadcast signal into the second MPEG TS packet;

a routing engine for routing the IP packet based on destination information included in the Ethernet frame;

a decapsulator for extracting said IP packet from said Ethernet frame; and

a multiplexer for respectively attaching a packet header including identification information to said first MPEG TS packet included to said IP packet and said second MPEG TS packet demodulated from said cable broadcast signal, to generate an IP MPEG packet IMP and a CableCARD MPEG packet CMP, multiplex the IMP and the CMP, and send the multiplexed IMP and CMP to the POD; and

a demultiplexer for demultiplexing the IMP and CMP received from the POD and routing the demultiplexed IMP and CMP based on the identification information,

6. The host device of claim 5, wherein the frame further includes an Ethernet header and an Ethernet CRC.

7. The host device of claim 6, wherein the routing engine removes the Ethernet header and the Ethernet CRC.

8. The host device of claim 5, wherein the IP packets carry at least one of video, audio and service information.